Northern Michigan University radiology student Mara Heino is one of 11 "exceptional individuals" selected to receive $20,000 scholarships from the KFC Foundation. The program is designed to help KFC restaurant employees pursue their college dreams. Heino works at the Marquette franchise. 

Northern Michigan University Alumni Relations has announced the recipients of its 2023 NMU Alumni Awards: Ellen J. Narotzky Kennedy ('71 MA, '72 MAE) of St. Paul, Minn., Distinguished Alumni; Mitchell Stephenson ('13 BA) of Dillon, Mont., Outstanding Young Alumni; and Charles Hawes ('77 BS) of Lansing, Mich., Alumni Service-Community.  

Dr. Eric Schaff, a radiation oncologist and 2013 NMU biology/physiology alumnus, has joined U.P. Health System-Marquette's Cancer Center team. According to a UPHS press release, Schaff specializes in the treatment of adult cancers, offering advanced personalized radiation options for Upper Peninsula residents close to home.

NMU alumnus Alex Ermatinger graduated in 2012 with a bachelor's degree in environmental science and biology. After a few years working in chemical engineering and then pharmaceutical research, he realized that his true calling was to be a fishing guide. He had grown up fishing for salmon and steelhead in the northern Lower Peninsula. Ermatinger returns to the area to help clients chase the same species during their annual migration from Lake Michigan into rivers along the west coast of the state.

Northern Michigan University President Brock Tessman will meet with NMU alumni and friends at a reception-style event from 5:30-7 p.m. CST Wednesday, Aug. 9, at Pine Grove Country Club in Iron Mountain. He will provide a university update and chat with attendees over complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages.